Don Lee Bennetts

BESSEMER, Mich. - Don Lee Bennetts, 72, a lifelong resident of Bessemer, passed away unexpectedly early Monday morning, Oct. 3, 2016, at his home.

Don was born on July 4, 1944, in Bessemer, a son of Walter and Vivian (Tobin) Bennetts. He attended A.D. Johnston High School and graduated in 1962.

Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, aboard the USS Eldorado in the Bay of Tonkin during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged on Aug. 30, 1966, as a Boatswains Mate Third Class Petty Officer. Don received numerous decorations and commendations. He was a platoon leader and a member of the recruit drum and bugle corps.

Don returned home where he worked for the city of Bessemer in the following positions: police officer, sexton at Hillcrest Cemetery and lead man and also served as the union president. He retired after 30 years of service in 1999.

Don served on the following boards: Gogebic County Commissioner, Gogebic Medical Care Facility Board, Chairman of Gogebic County Road Commission, Gogebic County Forestry and Parks Commission, Gogebic County Airport Board, 911 Committee, Gogebic County Trail Authority where he served as president, Bessemer City Downtown Development Association, WUPTA, Western U.P. Planning Commission and Development Region, Commission on Aging, Western U.P. Health Department, Section 32 Wastewater Authority, West Central U.P. Regional Corrections Board, Western U.P. Substance Abuse Board, H.O.P.E., and FEMA Federal Emergency Management Board.

He was a faithful member of Bessemer American Legion Post 27, Bessemer Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3673 and Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Don took pleasure in spending countless hours at Calhoun Country with family and friends. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping, Fourth of July celebrations, having coffee with his buddies, playing old timers softball league and four-wheeling. Don was a respected referee and umpire honored for 40 years of service. He was a die-hard Vikings fan.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 33 years, Maryann; a son, Brian (Carolyn), and their daughter, Abby; two daughters, LeeAnn and Lori; Maryann's children, David (Tina), Kathy (Dennis), Michael (Natalie), Bonnie (Steve), Sue (Mike) and Carol (Ben); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two brothers, Jay (Sandy) and Pat (Judy); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don was predeceased by his parents; and his brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Mary.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Oct. 7, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 9 a.m., at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, E8223 Sanders Road, with the Rev. Timothy J. Steckling officiating.

Following the service, a flag presentation will take place at the church under the auspices of Bessemer American Legion Post 27 and Bessemer VFW Post 3673 Honor Guard.

A luncheon will be served at the church fellowship hall following the military service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for a future scholarship to be established in Don's name.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner-manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield.  Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.